Apprenticeship skills
Employers supporting jobs drive.
The push by employers to recruit more apprentices is on track to deliver 27,000 new Modern Apprenticeship starts by the end of this year, the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has revealed.
To end of December 2017, more than 18,700 apprentices were recorded as having started training across the country.
Next year’s target of 28,000 apprentice starts will, for the first time, include Graduate Apprenticeships. People can study for university level qualifications while in paid full-time employment.
Speaking after launching Scottish Apprenticeship Week and meeting Modern Apprentices at a visit to Lothian Buses, the First Minister said:
“Skills investment is a key contributor to our economic growth. That is why we have increased Skills Development Scotland’s funding by 7% to £193 million next year.
“We recognise the vital role skills can play in helping individuals realise their potential allowing our businesses to maximise growth opportunities both now and in future.
“Skills Development Scotland exists to create the conditions for businesses to increase productivity and growth, thereby helping deliver the skills that our people and economy need.”
SDS Chief Executive Damien Yeates said:
“Scottish Apprenticeship Week is the ideal time for employers, young people and parents to find out more about the range of apprenticeships on offer.
“And the Year of Young People is the ideal time to hold Scotland’s first apprenticeship conference by apprentices for young people. The event will be Scotland’s biggest celebration of apprentices, showcasing the talent and achievements of young people who choose to work, learn and earn.”